Twin Grid-array as 3.6 GHz Epidermal Antenna for Potential Backscattering 5G Communication

Emerging 5G infrastructures can boost innovative paradigms for future wearable and epidermal devices exploiting low-power (even passive) wireless backscattering-based communication. To compensate high body- and path-losses, and to extend the read range, array configurations are required. This work proposes a flexible monolithic epidermal layout, based on Krauss array concept, that operates at 3.6 GHz and it is suitable to be directly attached to the human body. The antenna involves a dual grid configuration with a main radiating grid backed by a grid reflector placed in touch with the skin. Overall, the amount of conductor an dielectric substrate are minimized with benefit to breathability. The antenna is suitable to surface feeding and produces a broadside radiation. Parametric analysis are performed and an optimal configuration of four-cells grid is derived and experimentally demonstrated to provide a maximum

gain of more than 6 dBi.